Transcript for Aaron Hernandez of New England Patriots Charged With 1st Degree Murder

An athlete with soaring success, now charged withmurder. Handcuffed, led from his home. Aaron hernandez of the new england patriots sitting in a jail cell. Abc's john schriffen has the stunning reversal of fortune. Reporter: Aaron hernandez's rapid fall from grace was clear this morning when he was taken in handcuffs from his million dollar home outside of boston. The 23-year-old former new england patriot star was a fan favorite, catching touchdowns from superstar quarterback tom brady. Touchdown, hernandez! Reporter: But this afternoon in court, he was charged with killing his friend, odin lloyd, in an elaborate six cushexecution-style murder. Prosecutors say hernandez and lloyd argued after living a club on friday night. Monday, they say, hernandez and two friends drove lloyd to a nearby industrial park. Lloyd was shot five times. Authorities say hernandez was the mastermind. Hernandez has pleaded not guilty. But today, the patriots cut all ties with their former star. How bright was aaron hernandez's feature in the nfl? Well, aaron hernandez was one of the young stars of the national football league. He had been one of the best players in his first three seasons in the league. Reporter: If hernandez is convicted, he faces life in prison. Massachusetts does not have the death penalty. John schriffen, abc news, attleborough, massachusetts.

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